Marlin Model 336RC .30-30 Lever-Action Rifle | 1951 20-Inch Ballard-Rifled Carbine
Produced in 1951, this Marlin Model 336RC retains its original Ballard-style deep-cut rifling, chrome-plated bolt, and factory hot salt blue finish. A 20-inch barrel, full-length 6-round magazine, and American walnut furniture give this carbine the classic profile serious Marlin collectors look for.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good – showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair – generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Fouling: Moderate Fouling – lead or copper fouling with noticeable buildup.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling – worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: Scattered pitting and finish wear are present. The receiver top has a single drilled hole of unknown use. The bore would benefit from a thorough, dedicated cleaning to preserve the remaining rifling.
What’s Included
- Marlin Model 336RC .30-30 lever-action rifle
This early “RC”-marked carbine falls within the H-prefix serial range, confirming 1951 production. That machining, paired with pre-safety internals and a half-cock hammer, gives the rifle its period-correct configuration.
The 20-inch round barrel features Marlin’s Ballard-style rifling, prized by many shooters for its deep, cut-groove design predating the later Micro-Groove system. A full-length tubular magazine offers a 6+1 capacity while maintaining the handy 38.5-inch overall length.
Factory iron sights consist of a hoodless bead front dovetailed to the barrel band and a semi-buckhorn rear leaf with elevator. The receiver is drilled and tapped, allowing the easy addition of a scope without further modification.
American black walnut furniture includes a pistol-grip buttstock with fluted comb and a semi-beavertail fore-end.
Weighing approximately 6.5–7 lb unloaded, this 336RC balances quick handling with the power of the .30-30 cartridge—making it an appealing piece for both field use and historical appreciation.